If it somehow came out that Netflix and the utility companies were in league with each other in order to keep us inside and run up the electricity bill, I wouldn’t be surprised in the slightest. The streaming powerhouse is releasing a bevy of quality movies and shows that will satisfy all of our viewing needs. A couple movies from a legendary director, Oscar winners, and Netflix’s latest collaboration with Marvel. Do you want to watch the leaves turn from green to gold? Or would you rather watch Luke Cage kick some ass? I think the answer is clear.

Here’s a few of our must-stream movies and shows coming to Netflix in September, and don’t forget to check out the complete list of new additions below!

Universal Pictures

Jaws (September 1)

Steven Spielberg’s 1975 thriller about a Great White obsessed with human flesh defined the concept of the summer blockbuster. While it is a little odd that Jaws wasn’t released on Netflix in time for its spiritual anniversary of July 4th, better is always late than never. Only Spielberg’s third feature, Jaws is a heart-pounding thriller elevated by Spielberg’s prowess and the terrific performances of Ray Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw. A classic in every way imaginable, Jaws should be among the first added to your queue come the dawn of September.

DreamWorks Pictures

Saving Private Ryan (September 1)

September is shaping up to be perfect for Spielberg fans. The director’s 1998 Oscar-winning is a heartbreaking, hyper-realistic story of a squad of Army Rangers sent to rescue a stranded paratrooper during the Invasion of Normandy in 1944. The film features one of the best and most graphic, battle scenes in the history of cinema in the Omaha Beach landing sequence that begins the film. Spielberg is unrepentant in holding his camera on the blood strewn beach to show the audience the full horrors of war. A well-drilled cast brings further emotional gravity to the narrative and the final battle is an archetypal “last stand”.

Netflix

Narcos: Season 2 (September 2)

Pablo Escobar was one of the most successful criminals in history. His stranglehold on Colombian cocaine allowed him to amass a mind-boggling fortune while his brutal intimidation methods ultimately led to his bloody downfall. Netflix releases the second season of their Escobar chronicle, Narcos on the second and, if the trailers are any indication, we’re in for another season of top quality drama. With solid performances and a strict adherence to the history, Narcos presents a fascinating insight into the world of one of the Western Hemisphere’s most infamous crime bosses.

BBC One

Luther: Season 4 (September 17)

Driven by Idris Elba’s unrelenting performance, Luther follows the brilliant yet psychologically troubled DCI John Luther as he pursues the worst of London society. Season four consists of two episodes initially aired over two weeks in December. Luther is on a leave of absence from the force, holed up in a shack in rural England. Yet he is brought back to London after a colleague from the Met brings him a shocking piece of news. Just like that, Luther is back to what he does best, hunting vicious criminals whom others in law enforcement can’t track down.

Walt Disney Studiso Motion Pictures

Zootopia (September 20)

The resurgence of Disney Animation Studios continued in 2016 with the release of this story about a small town rabbit who becomes the first of her species to serve in the Zootopia police force. Once again taking cues from Pixar, Disney Animation crafts a pleasing tale with multiple layers perfect for kids and adults alike. It is essentially a buddy cop flick, paying homage to the greats of the genre such as Beverly Hills Cop and Lethal Weapon. The theme of discrimination and prejudice forms the core of the narrative and the message of the importance of acceptance is clear. Zootopia’s protagonist, Judy Hopps, also exhibits a classic coming-of-age arc that is both touching and inspirational.

Netflix

Iliza Shlesinger: Confirmed Kills (September 23)

With Iliza Schlesinger’s third special for the streaming giant, Netflix is continuing its work in bringing the best of stand-up comedy to its site. Ever since she burst onto the scene as the winner of Last Comic Standing, Iliza Schlesinger has been a fresh voice in stand-up. Her observation based deconstructions of dating and relationships are both funny and thought provoking. In Confirmed Kills, the comedian continues to dish out her cutting bits to a packed house at the historic Vic Theatre in Chicago.

The Weinstein Company

The Imitation Game (September 24)

The story of British computer scientist and cryptanalyst Alan Turing is both inspirational and tragic. Blessed with a brilliant mind, Turing decrypted German codes for the British government in World War II and was a pioneer in the invention of computers. However, he was persecuted for his sexual identity and was convicted of homosexual acts before committing suicide. Morton Tyldum’s Oscar-winning biopic chronicling Turing’s life during World War II is a fascinating look into the mind of a genius. Benedict Cumberbatch is superb as Turing, showcasing his seemingly effortless ability in portraying troubled geniuses. Graham Moore’s excellent script provides the blueprint for an exhilarating drama.

Netflix

Marvel’s Luke Cage (September 30)

Netflix is ending the month in a big way with the release of the first season of Marvel’s Luke Cage. Cage was introduced in Jessica Jones as the titular character’s sometimes paramour and ally. He quickly became a fan favorite and plans were made for a standalone series. This will be the third installment in Netflix’s contribution to the Marvel Cinematic Universe and if Daredevil and Jones are any indication, we’ll once again be treated to an exhilarating exploration of the psyche of the superhero. Judging from the trailers released, we’re in for a tremendous experience with Mr. Cage.

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